Menu
19/04/2005
'What makes children laugh?' UU researcher asks
A University of Ulster researcher is hoping to unravel the puzzle into what makes children laugh.
As part of a five-nation probe, Professor Máire Messenger-Davies, who is based at the University’s Coleraine campus, will join researchers from Germany, Israel, South Africa and the US in the research project funded by IZI, the Munich based International Institute for the Study of Youth and Media.
The purpose is to determine what children laugh at and whether there are national or cultural differences that influence their sense of humour.
Initially the researchers are compiling samples of humorous material - mainly television programmes, both animated and live, from each of the countries under the microscope. These will be shown to audiences of 8-12 year olds in selected schools in each country and specialists from IZI will measure the responses using a 'Fun-o-Meter' - a device to gauge the giggle quotient.
Afterwards, the children will be invited to discuss their reactions to the viewing material and the results will be analysed.
The project runs for a year and as well as compiling material, the researchers are also identifying schools which will be the test bed for the humour probe.
(MB/GB)
As part of a five-nation probe, Professor Máire Messenger-Davies, who is based at the University’s Coleraine campus, will join researchers from Germany, Israel, South Africa and the US in the research project funded by IZI, the Munich based International Institute for the Study of Youth and Media.
The purpose is to determine what children laugh at and whether there are national or cultural differences that influence their sense of humour.
Initially the researchers are compiling samples of humorous material - mainly television programmes, both animated and live, from each of the countries under the microscope. These will be shown to audiences of 8-12 year olds in selected schools in each country and specialists from IZI will measure the responses using a 'Fun-o-Meter' - a device to gauge the giggle quotient.
Afterwards, the children will be invited to discuss their reactions to the viewing material and the results will be analysed.
The project runs for a year and as well as compiling material, the researchers are also identifying schools which will be the test bed for the humour probe.
(MB/GB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
19 November 2024
BCC Launches Public Consultation On £100m Belfast Stories Project
Belfast City Council has today launched a public consultation on the ambitious £100 million Belfast Stories project. The initiative aims to transform the former Bank of Ireland building and surrounding site into a major public space, visitor attraction, and creative hub.
BCC Launches Public Consultation On £100m Belfast Stories Project
Belfast City Council has today launched a public consultation on the ambitious £100 million Belfast Stories project. The initiative aims to transform the former Bank of Ireland building and surrounding site into a major public space, visitor attraction, and creative hub.
20 March 2002
Sight-impaired children complete cross-border project
Education minister Martin McGuinness has presented ten sight-impaired children involved in a cross-border project with personal computers.
Sight-impaired children complete cross-border project
Education minister Martin McGuinness has presented ten sight-impaired children involved in a cross-border project with personal computers.
12 November 2019
QUB: Resource Launched To Support Children In Violence
Academics at Queen's University Belfast have launched a training resource aimed at enhancing responses to violence against children.
QUB: Resource Launched To Support Children In Violence
Academics at Queen's University Belfast have launched a training resource aimed at enhancing responses to violence against children.
09 August 2022
NI Children's Hospice Invest In New Specialist Mobility Equipment
The NI Children's Hospice has invested in new specialist mobility equipment with the recent granting of funds from the Energy for Children Charitable Trust.
NI Children's Hospice Invest In New Specialist Mobility Equipment
The NI Children's Hospice has invested in new specialist mobility equipment with the recent granting of funds from the Energy for Children Charitable Trust.
18 November 2024
Other News In Brief
Two Arrested After Dangerous Driving Incident In North Belfast Two men have been arrested following a dangerous driving incident in north Belfast in the early hours of Monday, November 18th. The incident began on the Whitewell Road, where a car was observed driving erratically.
Other News In Brief
Two Arrested After Dangerous Driving Incident In North Belfast Two men have been arrested following a dangerous driving incident in north Belfast in the early hours of Monday, November 18th. The incident began on the Whitewell Road, where a car was observed driving erratically.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
